Legislation Introduced to Solve Cyber Work Shortage

US lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill in the House of Representatives to address the cybersecurity workforce shortage. The Cyber Ready Workforce Act (H.R.6791) was introduced by U.S. Reps. Dan Donovan (R-NY) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). “Cybersecurity threats will continue to present national security challenges for America in the 21st century,” Donovan said. “With these threats and the changing economic and technological landscape, America needs a workforce that can adequately advance our cybersecurity defense priorities.” If passed, the bill would lead to a grant program within the Department of Labor. The Secretary of Labor would then have the ability to award competitive grants to workforce intermediaries in support of cybersecurity apprenticeship programs. Support offered to such apprentices could include career counseling, mentorship, as well as transportation, housing, and child care cost assistance.